The joy of that perfect fit is ours, as Mind Against finally join the revered ‘fabric presents’ mix series, out now.
Italian born, Berlin based duo Alessandro and Federico Fognini are an unstoppable force, as producers, DJs and selectors. Since first releasing on Life and Death in 2012, their relentless rise comprises a series of seamless, compelling tracks on esteemed labels – Afterlife, Life and Death, Hotflush, Cocoon, Siamese… Their immersive DJ sets are crafted so organically, due to the brothers’ deep rapport, with such mastery of emotion and soundscape, that demand ensures a nearly constant global touring schedule. Their strong ties with fabric result from playing many fabric shows in the last 8 years, their previous All Night Long show established as a timeless one to remember. A ‘fabric presents’ has been hotly anticipated and the stars have finally aligned.
‘fabric compilations have been part of our adventure in this world since early days, so it’s an important milestone in our career. We wanted to create a mix transcending genres and music tendencies, with as many exclusive tracks as possible, so we asked some of our favourite producers and friends for new material to fit the timeless feel we wanted for the mix, along with some evergreen tunes, some recent and some a bit older.’
Opening with Aurora Halal’s ‘Just Tell Me’, the mix starts languidly, subtly and mindfully building. Their DJ sets typically tease fans with many unreleased tracks to track down later, and true to form, the mix includes 12 exclusives such as Red Axes’ euphoric cut ‘Connector’ and Yotam Avni’s ‘Take One’; these will drop as a special bundle later in the summer. From established names like Frankey & Sandrino, Butch, Roman Flügel, to up and comers Nandu, Aera, and Shiffer, the duo showcase the artists they love. The mix closes with their own ‘Freedom’ with Dyzen.
‘Freedom’ opens and continues a dialogue between the dreamy languor of emotion-rich synth chords evoking early noughties euphoria, and dog-whistle-pitched melodic phrases leaping and playing, over a strong but subtle multi-layered percussion, all pinned by a beat of silence in the midst. A soundtrack for blissed-out summer nights.
The ‘Freedom’ video stars Raya Martigny who is a transgender model and actress. She’s the new generation muse of Mugler and Jean Paul Gaultier, and collaborated with Virgil Abloh for Off-White and Alaia, Rick Owens, GCDS and many more. Recently featuring in Vogue France & Italy, the INDIE and ELLE Denmark cover star is also an inspiring activist. She regularly advocates for more inclusivity and openness to gender diversity in the fashion industry.
The video, which is a thought-provoking display of emotional upheaval and the desire for freedom, was directed by Ly’n Ho: architect, filmmaker and visual artist Lydia, and transmedia visual artist Honza, whose previous collaborations include Brian Eno, Thom York, Max Richter, Moderat, The Rolling Stones.
